Clothing Storage Tips from your Local Dry Cleaner
If you're someone who cares about your clothing, you know that proper storage is essential to keeping your garments in good condition. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to figure out which methods are best. That's where your local dry cleaner comes in – they're experts in all things clothing care, including storage. In this article, we'll go over some tips and tricks for clothing storage straight from the professionals.
Why Proper Clothing Storage Matters
Before we dive into the specifics of how to store your clothing, let's talk about why it matters in the first place. Proper storage not only helps to keep your clothes looking good, but it can also prolong their lifespan. When clothes are exposed to sunlight, humidity, and dust, they can start to break down and deteriorate. On the other hand, when they're stored in a cool, dry, and dark environment, they'll stay in better condition for longer.
Hanging vs. Folding
One of the first decisions you'll need to make when it comes to clothing storage is whether to hang or fold your garments. In general, items like dresses, jackets, and blouses are best hung to prevent wrinkles and keep their shape. However, heavier items like coats and sweaters can stretch out when hung for too long, so it's best to fold those instead.
When hanging clothes, make sure to use sturdy hangers that won't leave marks or indentations on the fabric. And be sure to leave enough space between each item so they don't get squished together. For folded items, use a dresser or shelf and stack them neatly to prevent wrinkles.
Choosing the Right Hangers
As we mentioned earlier, using the right hangers can make a big difference in the condition of your clothing. Wire hangers, for example, can leave marks and indentations on the fabric, while wooden hangers can be too bulky for delicate items. The best option is to use hangers that are designed specifically for the type of garment you're hanging.
For instance, padded hangers are ideal for delicate fabrics like silk and chiffon, while hangers with clips are great for pants and skirts. And if you're hanging heavy items like coats or suits, look for hangers with a wide shoulder span to distribute the weight evenly.
Storing Sweaters and Knits
Sweaters and other knits are notorious for stretching out when hung, which is why it's best to fold them instead. But even when folded, these items can still be susceptible to damage if not stored properly. Here are some tips for storing sweaters and knits:
Use a shelf or drawer, rather than hanging
Fold them neatly to prevent wrinkles
Avoid stacking too many items on top of each other
Use acid-free tissue paper or a cotton garment bag to protect them from dust and pests
Don't store them in direct sunlight or near a heat source
Protecting Your Clothing from Moths
One of the biggest threats to your clothing when it's in storage is moths. These pesky insects are attracted to natural fibers like wool, silk, and cashmere, and they can cause irreparable damage to your garments if left unchecked. Here are some steps you can take to protect your clothing from moths:
Use mothballs or cedar blocks to repel the insects
Store your clothing in sealed containers or garment bags
Vacuum or shake out your clothing regularly to remove any eggs or larvae
Keep your storage area clean and free of dust and debris
These are just a few of the tips we have for properly storing your clothes. Stay tuned for more!